Global Industrial Cleaning Chemicals Market By Ingredient Type(Surfactants, Solvents, Chelating Agents, pH Regulators, Solubilizers/Hydrotropes, Enzymes, Others), By Product Type(Oven and Grill Cleaners, Metal Cleaners, Dish Washing, General and Medical Device Cleaning, Food Cleaners, Dairy Cleaners, Disinfectants, Others), By Application Type(Rust Cleaning Agent, Surface Cleaner, Odor Neutralizer, Degreaser, Others), By End User(Automotive, Transportation, Food Processing, Agriculture, Oil and Gas, Healthcare, Others) , By Region and Key Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2024–2033

Report Overview

The global Industrial Cleaning Chemicals Market size is expected to be worth around USD 113 billion by 2033, from USD 61 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2033.

The industrial cleaning chemicals market comprises the production, distribution, and sale of specialized chemicals used across various industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceuticals for maintenance and cleaning purposes. These products include degreasers, disinfectants, descalers, and solvents that are developed to meet stringent industrial standards, ensuring optimal cleanliness, hygiene, and safety in tough operational environments.

This market is primarily driven by the ongoing need for efficient and robust cleaning solutions designed to handle the rigorous demands of industrial operations. As industries expand and regulations on workplace hygiene become stricter, the demand for these chemicals continues to grow, influencing market dynamics and strategic developments.

Regulatory frameworks play a significant role in shaping the industrial cleaning chemicals sector. In Europe, the REACH initiative mandates chemical use’s safety and environmental impact, promoting the adoption of less harmful substances and the development of bio-based and sustainable products. Similarly, the U.S. EPA’s Safer Choice program supports using environmentally friendly cleaning solutions. These regulations ensure safety and sustainability and push companies to innovate and adapt to new market requirements.

Trade dynamics also significantly impact the market. For instance, U.S.-China trade relations have influenced the flow and pricing of chemical products, affecting global supply chains and market prices. In regions like Southeast Asia and the Middle East, more relaxed trade barriers and growing industrial activities boost the market, enhancing import-export operations and contributing to regional market growth.

Furthermore, both governmental and private sector investments are crucial in driving advances in this field. Governments fund initiatives to minimize workplace hazards, encouraging the development of safer chemical formulations. Simultaneously, private investments focus on enhancing cleaning efficiency and environmental sustainability through innovative technologies. This influx of investment supports continuous research and development, leading to the introduction of advanced, effective, and sustainable cleaning solutions.

Key Takeaways

• Industrial Cleaning Chemicals Market size is expected to be worth around USD 113 billion by 2033, from USD 61 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 6.4%.
• Surfactants held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 38.9% share.
• General & Medical Device Cleaning held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 17.8% share.
• Surface Cleaner held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 35.5% share.
• Food Processing held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 26.8% share.
• In 2023, APAC captured approximately 41.3% of the global market, valued at USD 29.4 billion.

By Ingredient Type

In 2023, Surfactants held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 38.9% share of the industrial cleaning chemicals market. Surfactants are essential due to their versatility in various cleaning applications, effectively reducing surface tension to allow easier spreading and mingling of water with oil and dirt. They are widely utilized across numerous industries, including manufacturing and healthcare, for their superior cleaning efficacy.

Solvents also play a critical role in the market, known for their ability to dissolve a range of substances, making them indispensable in processes that require powerful cleaning solutions. These chemicals are particularly valuable in industries where heavy grease and stubborn residues are common, such as automotive and aerospace.

Chelating agents are another significant segment. These ingredients bind with metal ions to prevent them from interfering with the cleaning process, essential in water treatment and textile manufacturing. Their ability to enhance the performance of detergents by tackling hard water ions boosts their adoption in areas with water quality issues.

pH regulators maintain the stability of cleaning formulations, ensuring that the chemicals remain effective under various conditions. These components are crucial for maintaining the correct acidity or alkalinity of solutions, pivotal in sectors like food processing and pharmaceuticals where precise chemical environments are necessary.

Solubilizers and hydrotropes have a specific function to increase the solubility of less soluble substances, enhancing the efficacy of cleaning products. They are particularly useful in formulating multi-ingredient cleaners where ingredient compatibility is essential.

Enzymes represent a growing segment due to their biodegradability and effectiveness at low temperatures. These biological catalysts are favored in environmentally-conscious markets, particularly in applications requiring the breakdown of organic materials, such as stain removers and odor eliminators.

By Product Type

In 2023, General & Medical Device Cleaning held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 17.8% share of the industrial cleaning chemicals market. This segment is crucial due to stringent hygiene standards in healthcare settings and the growing emphasis on facility cleanliness in various industries. The need for effective and safe cleaning agents in environments that must prevent infection and contamination drives strong demand in this category.

Oven & Grill Cleaners are another key segment, particularly valued in the food service industry for their ability to tackle tough grease and burnt residues. The effectiveness of these products in maintaining kitchen equipment and ensuring food safety contributes to their market significance.

Metal Cleaners are essential in manufacturing and maintenance operations where metal components must be kept free of oxides, residues, and contaminants. Their role is critical in extending the life of machinery and equipment, and supporting operational efficiency.

Dish Washing detergents hold a substantial share due to their ubiquitous need in both commercial and industrial settings. These products are designed to handle high-volume cleaning with formulations that cut through grease and food residues, ensuring sanitation and cleanliness.

Food Cleaners are specifically formulated for the food processing industry, where they must meet strict regulatory standards for safety and non-toxicity. Their use is vital in preventing foodborne illnesses and maintaining consumer trust in food products.

Dairy Cleaners are specialized for use in the dairy industry, which requires high levels of cleanliness and sanitation to ensure product quality and safety. The unique formulation of these cleaners addresses the specific challenges of milk residue and bacterial contamination.

Disinfectants are increasingly important, especially in the wake of heightened awareness around microbial transmission. These chemicals are extensively used across various sectors to prevent the spread of viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens, reinforcing their essential role in public health and safety.

By Application Type

In 2023, Surface Cleaner held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 35.5% share of the industrial cleaning chemicals market. This category encompasses a wide range of products designed for cleaning various surfaces in industrial settings, making it a fundamental choice for maintaining workplace hygiene and safety. The versatility and effectiveness of surface cleaners in removing dirt, stains, and pathogens contribute significantly to their market prominence.

Degreasers are also crucial, particularly in industrial environments where machinery and surfaces often accumulate grease and oil. These products are specially formulated to break down greasy residues, ensuring clean and efficient operation of equipment, which is vital for maintaining productivity and extending the lifespan of machinery.

Odor Neutralizers play an important role in improving air quality and enhancing the working environment. These products are designed to eliminate unpleasant odors rather than merely masking them, making them essential in industries such as waste management and manufacturing, where odors can be a significant issue.

Rust Cleaning Agents are targeted at removing rust and preventing its formation on metal surfaces, a common challenge in many industrial and commercial settings. Their ability to preserve metal integrity and appearance is particularly valued in sectors like automotive and construction.

By End User

In 2023, Food Processing held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 26.8% share of the industrial cleaning chemicals market. This sector relies heavily on stringent cleanliness and hygiene standards to ensure food safety and compliance with health regulations. The extensive use of industrial cleaning chemicals in this industry is driven by the need to prevent contamination and maintain consumer confidence in food products.

The Automotive industry also forms a significant portion of the market, where cleaning chemicals are used to maintain both manufacturing equipment and the vehicles themselves. These products are crucial for removing grease, oil, and other contaminants that can affect production quality and vehicle performance.

In Transportation, cleaning chemicals are essential for the maintenance of vehicles and infrastructure. This includes everything from public transit systems to airports, where the emphasis on hygiene and cleanliness has increased markedly in response to public health concerns.

The Agriculture sector uses cleaning chemicals to ensure the cleanliness of equipment and facilities, helping prevent the spread of disease among crops and livestock. This is vital for maintaining the health of agricultural produce and the efficiency of farming operations.

Oil & Gas is another major end-user, utilizing specialized cleaning formulations to deal with the unique challenges of grease, oil, and other petroleum-based products. These chemicals are critical for preventing equipment malfunctions and ensuring safe operations in a highly regulated environment.

Healthcare remains a critical area for cleaning chemicals, particularly for their role in infection control. The sector depends on high standards of cleanliness to protect patients and staff, making effective and reliable cleaning solutions indispensable.

Key Market Segments

By Ingredient Type

• Surfactants
• Solvents
• Chelating Agents
• pH Regulators
• Solubilizers/Hydrotropes
• Enzymes
• Others

By Product Type

• Oven & Grill Cleaners
• Metal Cleaners
• Dish Washing
• General & Medical Device Cleaning
• Food Cleaners
• Dairy Cleaners
• Disinfectants
• Others

By Application Type

• Rust Cleaning Agent
• Surface Cleaner
• Odor Neutralizer
• Degreaser
• Others

By End User

• Automotive
• Transportation
• Food Processing
• Agriculture
• Oil & Gas
• Healthcare
• Others

Driving Factors

Increasing Demand Post-Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly heightened global awareness of hygiene, driving increased demand for industrial cleaning chemicals, particularly disinfectants and sanitizers. These products are crucial in preventing the spread of viruses and maintaining safe, clean environments in various industries, including healthcare and food processing.

Technological Advancements: There is a notable trend towards the development of automated cleaning systems and smarter, more efficient chemical formulations. These advancements not only enhance cleaning effectiveness but also reduce labor costs and improve safety by minimizing human exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

Environmental Sustainability: A growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning solutions is reshaping the market. This shift is driven by both regulatory pressures and consumer preferences for greener products. For instance, biodegradable solvents and bio-based ingredients, like those derived from agricultural materials such as corn and sugarcane, are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower toxicity and reduced environmental impact.

Government and Regulatory Impact: Stringent environmental and safety regulations continue to influence market dynamics by promoting the use of safer, less harmful chemical formulations. This regulatory landscape is encouraging manufacturers to innovate and develop products that comply with these standards, further driving market growth.

Strategic Industry Collaborations: Partnerships between chemical manufacturers and end-users are vital for customizing products to meet specific industrial needs. These collaborations are essential for innovation in the field, helping to develop solutions that address unique challenges faced by different sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and food services.

Restraining Factors

Stringent Environmental Regulations

One of the primary factors restraining the growth of the industrial cleaning chemicals market is the increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Governments worldwide are imposing tougher standards on the use and disposal of chemicals in industries to minimize their environmental and health impacts. These regulations often require the reformulation of cleaning products to reduce or eliminate the presence of hazardous substances, which can increase production costs and complicate manufacturing processes.

The push for eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning solutions continues to influence market dynamics significantly, steering companies towards greener alternatives. However, navigating the complex regulatory landscape requires substantial investment in research and development to comply with these regulations, impacting the market’s profitability and innovation capacity.

Additionally, the enforcement of environmental standards and safety regulations by bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States and similar organizations globally ensures that cleaning chemicals meet strict guidelines for biodegradability and toxicity before they can be marketed. This regulatory pressure is seen not only in North America but also in Europe and Asia-Pacific regions, where there is a high demand for compliance with local and international environmental laws.

The need for compliance creates a significant financial burden on chemical manufacturers, particularly smaller players who may lack the resources to invest in new technologies or reformulate existing products to meet these standards. Consequently, while these regulations are crucial for protecting ecosystems and human health, they also act as a brake on the industry’s growth by increasing operational costs and slowing down the introduction of new products to the market.

Growth Opportunities

Expansion into Eco-Friendly Products: One of the most significant growth opportunities in the industrial cleaning chemicals market is the shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning solutions. This trend is driven by increasing consumer and regulatory demand for environmentally conscious products. Companies are investing in research and development to create biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning agents, which not only meet stringent environmental standards but also open new markets by appealing to eco-aware consumers and industries​.

Technological Innovations in Product Formulations: The development of advanced cleaning technologies, such as automated cleaning systems and smart formulations, presents another key growth area. These innovations enhance the efficiency of cleaning processes, reduce labor costs, and improve the effectiveness of cleaning products. The integration of technology in cleaning solutions allows for more precise and controlled use, which can lead to lower consumption of chemicals and reduced environmental impact.

Increased Demand in Healthcare and Food Processing: The healthcare and food processing industries are rapidly expanding markets for industrial cleaning chemicals, driven by stringent hygiene requirements and the critical need to prevent contamination. The COVID-19 pandemic has further emphasized the importance of effective cleaning and disinfection, escalating the demand for disinfectants and sanitizers. This trend is expected to continue as public health and safety remain a priority, providing substantial opportunities for growth in these sectors.

Geographical Expansion: The Asia Pacific region, in particular, offers significant growth potential due to its rapid industrialization, urbanization, and expanding healthcare infrastructure. The demand for cleaning chemicals is increasing in manufacturing, residential, and commercial sectors across countries like China and India. These markets are burgeoning not only due to the scale of their industrial activities but also due to the rising standards of living and heightened awareness of hygiene.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships: Forming strategic collaborations and partnerships with industrial end-users can facilitate the customization of cleaning solutions, tailored to specific industry needs and regulatory requirements. Such collaborations are crucial for innovation and can help address the unique cleaning challenges faced by various industries. These partnerships also enable companies to gain a competitive edge by enhancing their product offerings and expanding their market presence.

Latest Trends

Growing Emphasis on Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Solutions:

One of the most prominent trends in the industrial cleaning chemicals market is the increasing shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable products. This trend is driven by a combination of consumer preferences, regulatory pressures, and a broader societal shift toward environmental consciousness. Companies are actively investing in research and development to produce cleaning chemicals that are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment, reducing the ecological footprint of their operations.

Eco-friendly Innovations: There is a significant push for the development of cleaning chemicals that minimize environmental damage. This includes the production of biodegradable solvents and the expansion of biosurfactant offerings, which are seen as less toxic and more sustainable alternatives to traditional petrochemical-based products.

Technological Advancements: Automation and smart technologies are being integrated into cleaning processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The use of automated systems, IoT devices, and data-driven solutions helps in reducing labor costs and improving the precision of cleaning operations.

Specialization and Customization: There is a growing demand for specialized cleaning chemicals tailored to specific industries such as healthcare, food processing, and manufacturing. This is due to the unique challenges each sector faces, requiring customized solutions to meet their specific cleaning and hygiene standards.

Regulatory Impact: The industry is also responding to increasing regulatory demands for safer and environmentally friendly cleaning products. This is pushing companies to innovate and reformulate their products to comply with stringent global standards.

Strategic Collaborations: Partnerships between chemical manufacturers and end-users are crucial for tailoring products to specific needs. These collaborations are fostering innovation and allowing companies to secure a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving market.

Regional Analysis

The industrial cleaning chemicals market exhibits significant regional variation, with the Asia Pacific (APAC) region leading in market share. In 2023, APAC captured approximately 41.3% of the global market, valued at USD 29.4 billion. This dominance can be attributed to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and an increasing focus on hygiene standards across various sectors, including manufacturing, food processing, and healthcare. Countries such as China and India are driving this growth, supported by robust industrial activities and expanding end-user bases.

North America holds a substantial share of the market. The United States, in particular, is a significant contributor, driven by stringent regulations governing environmental safety and health, as well as a rising demand for effective cleaning solutions in diverse industries.

The European Union’s regulatory framework encourages the use of biodegradable and less harmful chemicals, prompting manufacturers to innovate and adapt their offerings.

The Middle East & Africa, and Latin America represent smaller shares. However, these regions are gradually expanding their industrial sectors, creating potential growth opportunities for industrial cleaning chemicals. The overall market dynamics suggest a trend towards sustainability and innovation across all regions, shaping the future landscape of the industrial cleaning chemicals market.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Russia & CIS
  • Rest of Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • ASEAN
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The industrial cleaning chemicals market is characterized by a diverse range of key players, each contributing to the sector’s growth through innovation, product development, and strategic partnerships. Prominent companies such as BASF SE, Dow Inc., and Evonik Industries AG are at the forefront, leveraging their extensive research capabilities to produce advanced cleaning solutions that meet stringent regulatory requirements.

BASF SE, for instance, focuses on sustainable formulations, positioning itself as a leader in eco-friendly cleaning products. Ecolab Inc. and Diversey Holdings Ltd. also play significant roles by providing specialized cleaning solutions tailored to sectors such as healthcare and food processing.

In addition, 3M and Henkel AG & Co. KGaA are known for their innovative cleaning technologies and strong market presence. Procter & Gamble and Reckitt Benckiser Group plc further emphasize consumer-oriented cleaning products, impacting both commercial and residential cleaning sectors.

Companies like Solvay SA and Clariant AG are also investing in bio-based chemicals and sustainable practices, reflecting the industry’s shift towards environmentally responsible products. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with players continually adapting to market demands, regulatory changes, and consumer preferences, ensuring the industrial cleaning chemicals market remains vibrant and forward-looking.

Market Key Players

• 3M
• Albemarle Corporation
• BASF SE
• Clariant AG
• Croda International PLC
• Diversey Holdings Ltd.
• Dow Inc.
• DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
• Eastman Chemical Corporation
• Ecolab Inc.
• Evonik Industries AG
• Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
• Huntsman International LLC
• Kimberly-Clark Corporation
• Pilot Chemical Corp
• Procter & Gamble
• Reckitt Benckiser Group plc
• Sasol
• Solvay SA
• STEPAN Company
• The Clorox Company, Inc.
• Westlake Chemicals Corporation

Recent Developers

In 2023, 3M launched several new cleaning solutions, including advanced disinfectants and surface cleaners designed to meet the increasing demand for effective hygiene in industrial environments.

In 2023 Albemarle Corporation, the company reported a revenue of approximately USD 5.4 billion, with a notable contribution from its cleaning and sanitation products.

Report Scope